Grossmont ended last season with a 20-game losing streak. But pro prospect Derek Rustich and others figure to have the Foothillers back in the Grossmont Hills League race.

Vickery to Abruzzo

Graduation wiped out the bulk of the roster of perennial power El Capitan, so this is a rebuilding year. The Vaqueros must do it without Steve Vickery, the second-winningest coach in San Diego Section history, who has retired. He has been replaced by former El Cap star Jordan Abruzzo.

Are they good enough?

Cathedral Catholic is ranked No. 1 in san Diego and No. 1 in the nation in some polls. But Mira Mesa, led by outfielder Terry Lomax and pitcher Joey Portugal, might have enough to challenge the Dons in the City Conference.

Will Barons wear crown?

Bonita Vista can’t be overlooked in the Metro Conference. The Barons boast a top-flight arm in Matt Ball. Eastlake, with catcher Devin Kopas anchoring the lineup, should also be a contender.

Hermosillo factor

Montgomery isn’t ranked in the preseason, but with coach Manny Hermosillo at the helm the Aztecs always seem to be contenders.

Tough leagues

With Vista, Rancho Buena Buena Vista, La Costa Canyon and Carlsbad, the Avocado West is loaded. Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Torrey Pines, Westview and Canyon Crest make the Palomar League a monster.

Lions loaded

The Classic Division of the March 25-28 Lions Tournament is brimming with talent. One pool has Vista, ranked No. 2 in the county, and No. 6 Granite Hills. Pool B boasts No. 8 Mira Mesa and Rancho Bernardo, ranked No. 8 the state. Pool C is headlined by No. 10 Poway. And Pool D has No. 7 La Costa Canyon and Woodland Hills El Camino Real, ranked No. 12 in the state. Madison, with top-flight left-hander Ian Clarkin, is also in Pool D.

More Lions

The Premier Division boasts St. Augustine, ranked No. 4 in the county, No. 5 Rancho Buena Vista and No. 9 Eastlake along with Bonita Vista, San Dieguito, La Jolla Country Day, Grossmont, Torrey Pines and Valhalla.